Do you dream about working for yourself?

London Met Hatchery programme offers students the opportunity to make their business dreams a reality.

Date: 26 September 2014

London Met students and graduates are being given the chance to start their own business, thanks to an intensive start-up programme run by the University’s business incubator, Accelerator.

The Hatchery, based in the heart of Shoreditch, provides students with support to turn a business idea, or a desire to be self-employed, into a tangible reality.

The programme includes weekly sessions and workshops, access to office space and computers, mentorship, social events, and a chance to be part of a thriving community of enterprises on the doorstep of London’s ‘Tech City.’

Work for yourself

Starting a business is a great way to take control of your future, to be your own boss and, importantly, to do something you love. It can, however, be a costly, intimidating and confusing process in which there are no guarantees of success. The Hatchery programme helps aspiring entrepreneurs to navigate this challenging process, and represents an amazing opportunity for enterprising students and graduates.

“At Accelerator, we’ve got a mountain of experience working with students from all backgrounds,” said Simon Boot, Student Enterprise Manager at Accelerator.

“It doesn’t matter if you want to launch a clothing brand, a line of jewellery, or an innovative tech business, The Hatchery program will equip you with the tools, knowledge and support needed to take your idea forward.”

The programme is completely free for students and graduates of London Met, but places are extremely limited. The deadline for applying for a place on the scheme is 13 October 2014.

“All you need to have when applying to the programme is a good idea and a lot of passion for making it work – the Hatchery will help you with the rest,” added Simon.

Enterprise success stories

Some current Hatchery businesses, like Ayden Kappo & Jasmine Holland, Co-founders of Melting Pot LDN, have praised the programme. They said: “The Hatchery has been an amazing experience. Having access to industry experts and professional networks has been a massive help in getting our catering business off the ground.”

And Anna Ojutkangas and Eve Suoyrjö co-founded their Arctic Power Berries business with Hatchery support. “You have so many questions when starting up, so having access to experienced business advisers, and a community of other entrepreneurs, is invaluable. It's really motivating,” they said.